THURSDAY John 9:13-34
• John Newton used words from verse 25 of this story in his musical testimony, the hymn Amazing
Grace. “I once was lost,” he wrote, “but now am found; was blind, but now I see.” In what ways has Jesus’ amazing grace made your spiritual sight clearer? In what areas do you want to ask God for greater clarity in your inner vision?
• In verse 24, the leaders told the healed blind man, “Give glory to God by telling the truth. We know
this man is a sinner.” They sounded like the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland, shouting, “Verdict first—evidence later.” How does enduring faith in God differ from obstinate, blinding trust in your own opinions (even religious ones)?
Reflection by Kathy Gull
Part of the verses from John 9:13-34 inspired the song Amazing Grace. I read the questions and the scripture and was, of course, blessed by the fact that I would be assigned this devotion. There are four different reactions, from different people, to Jesus in this scripture. There were skeptical, surprised neighbors; hardcore disbelieving Pharisees; fearful parents and then a healed man whose faith grew and continued to grow because of God’s grace. I see myself in the healed man. I was not sorry to see 2012 head out. I was not sad to say goodbye to the year that brought heartache and pain to myself and my family. It brought uncertainty and testing. We stayed the course and clung tight to the promises of safety and comfort in the Lord. At this end of the year I am closer to Him–God has brought me through this particular set of storms. My future is uncertain but the rock that I cling to is very certain. God will never forsake me. I believe the words to Amazing Grace really do say it all.
“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me….
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.
T’was Grace that taught…
my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear…
the hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares…
we have already come.
T’was Grace that brought us safe thus far…
and Grace will lead us home.
The Lord has promised good to me…
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be…
as long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
a life of joy and peace.
When we’ve been here ten thousand years…
bright shining as the sun.
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise…
then when we’ve first believed
“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me….
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.